How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric examination is required to determine ADHD. This is performed by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse.
This can be a lengthy procedure, since the old school records might need to be submitted. But, you can avoid the waiting and get a private assessment by booking directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment for ADHD is a consultation with an expert to discuss your symptoms and how they impact your life. It usually requires two sessions and is much more detailed than a NHS psychiatric evaluation. The process involves an organized interview with an expert who will examine your symptoms from childhood through adulthood. private adhd assessment will also look into whether there are other neurological or mental health issues that may cause your symptoms. They will concentrate on various areas of functioning, like work or relationships and will ask you to provide examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.
It is important to keep in mind that a diagnosis of ADHD is not an easy straightforward one. Many people who are told they are suffering from the condition have a mixed diagnostic picture. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the three primary symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity typically appears different from the raunchy hyperactivity that is seen in children, and may be characterized by restlessness or constantly rushing around. Similarly, inattentiveness can manifest as difficulty sitting still and being organised, or difficulty focusing on tasks and forgetting things easily.
If you believe that medication can help your symptoms, a psychiatrist's official diagnosis is required. This will allow you to receive reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance. The best method to do this is to talk to your GP and ask them to refer you to a psychiatrist for an evaluation.
You might find your GP doesn't want to refer you or can't give you an appointment in a timely manner. If this is the case, it might be worth switching GPs and you can find more information about how to make use of your right to choose on the Psychiatry-UK website.
You might also be able to make an appointment directly with a private psychiatric service, either through the NHS system or privately. Some providers might not require a letter of referral from your GP but the majority of them will. Be sure to consult with your selected provider prior to booking.
How do I obtain an individual evaluation?
ADHD is a complex mental disorder that affects brain processes like motivation working memory, motivation, and attention. Adults may have difficulties coping with the condition, which can create issues in many areas. A personal ADHD assessment will help you understand the impact that these symptoms can have on your life, and help you manage them.
There are a number of providers who will conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can exercise your right to choose (RTC) if you ask your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to do this you might want to find another GP willing to do it.
The majority of assessments are conducted by a psychiatrist or specialist nurse (or another healthcare professional of the appropriate level in accordance with NICE guidelines). These are the only professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases, an ADHD assessment will consist of questionnaires as well as a clinic interview, either in-person or via video call. It usually takes between 45 and 90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current issues as well as your previous struggles since childhood if you are an adult. A healthcare expert will determine if exhibit any of the traits associated with ADHD such as inattention, hyperactivity, and an impulsive nature. You will be asked for examples of when you have displayed these traits. The healthcare professional will utilize these to establish an assessment and suggest treatment options.
If you are struggling with a chronic illness and aren't willing to wait for a referral from the NHS seeking an assessment from a private practitioner is advisable. It is important to remember that the results of a private assessment do not mean that your GP will prescribe medication. It is still necessary to discuss this with them, and if you decide to try medications it is recommended you seek a shared care agreement with your GP.
If you have a doctor in England who is happy to refer you to an NHS provider for an ADHD assessment You can find a list of the providers here. Some of these providers provide assessments online and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many ways to obtain an ADHD assessment. The NHS has a process known as 'Right to Choose' where you can request your GP for a referral to one of the specialist doctors on their list - this can reduce the waiting time considerably. There are private providers who can diagnose quickly.
In general, it's best to find a specialist psychiatrist with experience of adult ADHD. It may take some time to locate one since they aren't easily accessible. Some will insist that you have an GP referral letter before they can see you for an examination however, this isn't always required.
Psychiatrists are able to provide an assessment of your symptoms, but will not be able to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals - including Psychologists - can assist you to manage your symptoms, but they will not provide you with a formal diagnosis of ADHD that is required to be able to access assistance services such as Disabled Student's Allowance and reasonable adjustments to work.
A specialist Psychiatrist can determine and explain your symptoms. They will also assess whether they are consistent ADHD and will take into consideration any other mental health issues that you might have. Your Psychiatrist is able to provide you with the best treatment if you are honest and open.
You'll need to pay for the examination, but if you are diagnosed with ADHD it might be possible to receive medication through a shared care agreement with your GP (you'll be required to be responsible for the NHS prescription charge). If you're thinking of paying for a private diagnosis, we would advise you to talk with your GP prior to booking an appointment so they know what you're doing and give their consent, if needed.
It's also worth looking into joining a support group in order to meet other adults who have ADHD, and hear their stories and suggestions. They can be incredibly supportive, comforting and encouraging. You can find online groups via Facebook and Reddit or local in-person groups.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over claims that some private clinics are handing out unreliable diagnoses. A reporter undercover visited three private ADHD assessment providers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them despite the fact that the patient did not have ADHD. The report suggested that these assessments were rushed and did not consider all the symptoms or the consequences of ADHD on people's lives. The report also raised concerns about those who aren't eligible for NHS assessments and have to pay out of pocket for a diagnosis or a medication.
It is true that GPs may suggest you to have an ADHD assessment through one of the major private companies (such as Priory) but they will usually advise you there will likely be a waiting period. The time frame for waiting varies from one provider to another and is usually six weeks. Ask friends and family for recommendations and then do a thorough research on the provider. Picking a reputable, experienced firm will likely mean that you will have a shorter wait than if you go through your GP.
During the evaluation the psychiatrist will determine the subjectively whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impact on your daily functioning. They will seek to rule out any other causes such as thyroid, anxiety, depression or issues. They will usually request evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood) and school records if necessary. This is a stressful process, especially for those with complex family situations or who cannot find their school records from childhood.
After you have been evaluated and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional, you'll be eligible to apply for disability assistance through your local authority. Be aware that most GPs won't sign a document called a shared-care agreement if you were diagnosed privately and aren't fully titrated to your final dose of medicine. This is because doctors do not have the knowledge to evaluate adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.